I stared at the door to my mother's room, my fingers anxiously rubbing the ring John gave me that I put on a delicate silver chain around my neck.
I did this for a while.
Having just arrived in Japan and in my grandparent's home, it hadn't been much of a joyful reunion. My grandparents were worried about my mother's declining health and they immediately ushered Dad into my grandfather's office to talk about her. Haru wasn't at home at the moment and my relatives were all busy preparing for a feast.
Gathering my courage, I slid the door open. I knew sooner or later I would see her and I chose to do it now after I finished unpacking rather than keep worrying about it. The room was dark, stuffy and with trembling legs, I proceeded inside.
My mother was reclining on top of the bed, under t
